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Since opening its doors in March, the Seriously Addictive Mathematics Centre (S.A.M.) has been offering an enrichment program for kids in Pre-K to Grade 6.
At the forefront of its curriculum is the Singapore math method, which emerged in the 1980s after the country underwent a major educational restructuring.
For decades, students in Singapore had some of the lowest math rankings in the world. But according to reports by the International Association for the Evaluation of Educational Achievement, countries whose schools employ the Singapore method now place among the highest globally.
It is based on real world applications of mathematics with a focus on problem solving, says Erminio Zappitelli, president of the Montreal branch. Oftentimes, he says, students are taught to complete a question but do not understand the reasoning behind the application of certain formulas to get the answer. With this method, complex equations are given as world problems and are broken down step by step.
“We are looking at ways to engage a child’s mind to think more critically,” Zappitelli says. “We look at effective means to break down problems.”
With about eight students per class, the interactive sessions encourage kids to vocalize their questions or comments and work with their peers. Worksheets are used in class along with other educational activities and games. Sessions take place one hour per week and students are asked to enroll for a minimum of 12 weeks to get the full learning experience.
For more information, visit seriouslyaddictivemaths.ca.
